Celebrating Heritage and Empowering Futures: Highlights from the Jamaica Foundation of Houston’s Annual Gala
JUL 26 :::: ANNUAL GALA
The Jamaica Foundation of Houston hosted its highly anticipated Annual Gala, an enchanting evening filled with elegance, celebration, and purpose. The event took place on Saturday, July 26, 2025, at the stunning Chateau Crystale, located at 2517 S Gessner Rd, Houston, TX 77063, and marked a memorable occasion honoring Jamaica’s 63rd Independence Day. Guests were welcomed into a beautifully decorated venue where the ambiance radiated sophistication and warmth, setting the perfect tone for the night’s festivities.
Attendees enjoyed a delectable dining experience accompanied by lively music and vibrant entertainment. The evening was amplified by performances from DJ Paul Notch, whose energetic sets kept the dance floor lively, and the Bayou City Brass Band, renowned for their unique blend of reggae and bayou city sounds. The program also included inspiring speeches delivered by Dr. Nicole Bent Jones, President of the Jamaica Foundation of Houston, and the keynote speaker, Dr. Shaun O. Smart, MD. Dr. Smart is an esteemed Associate Professor of Neurology, Division Head for Inpatient Neurology at MHH-TMC, Medical Director of the Neuro-hospitalist Fellowship, Director of Continuous EEG Operations at UTHSC and MHH-TMC, and a leading member of the Department of Neurology.
A highlight of the evening was the recognition of key contributors and organizers. Special thanks were given to Sylvanus Donaie, Editor, and Karlene Rose, Gala Committee Chairperson, for their outstanding work in designing the event’s souvenir booklet. Their creative efforts helped encapsulate the spirit of the celebration and the foundation’s mission. The gala souvenir booklet featured heartfelt ceremonial letters from prominent officials such as the Prime Minister of Jamaica, the Consulate General of Jamaica in Miami, and the Honorary Consul of Jamaica in Houston. Local government representatives, including the Governor of Texas and the Mayor of Houston, also sent official letters of support, emphasizing the significance of the event and its role in strengthening community ties. The booklet also highlighted the Scholarship Committee, led by Chairperson Darnette Hill, along with scholarship recipients and donors.
> View the JFH 2025 Gala Souvenir Booklet
>> Link to online version available here
The event also showcased generous donors and sponsors such as the Jamaica Tourist Board, Victoria Mutual, and Jammin Canna, whose support was instrumental in making the event a success. Special thanks to our table sponsors, including the Association of Jamaican Nurses, Houston Missouri City Domino Club, SouthProjectTX, OrangeDoc!, Mr. Wade and Mrs. Janet Campbells, and Dr. Ismay and Mr. Stan Reid, for their generous support. We sincerely thank Liming with Dynell and Billy Banton for their social media promotion, which helped us reach a broader audience and increase awareness of the event. Also, special thanks to bartenders Trevor Blair and Tiffany Caesar. Their contributions will directly benefit the foundation’s scholarship and educational programs, empowering deserving students to reach their full potential.
The gala program was thoughtfully curated to entertain and inspire. Samantha Hughes served as Mistress of Ceremonies, guiding guests through an engaging evening of speeches, performances, and silent auction. The venue and catering were provided by Chateau Crystale, offering a refined setting for the celebration. Former scholarship recipient Ke’Vaughn Waldon shared his inspiring journey. The evening also featured a silent auction, where attendees bid on exciting items to support the foundation’s initiatives. The youth cultural presentation, coordinated by Youth Advisor Sharon Anglin, added vibrant energy and cultural richness to the evening.
Overall, the event was a resounding success, bringing together community members, donors, and supporters in a collective effort to celebrate Jamaican heritage and invest in future generations. Thank you to everyone who attended and contributed to making this night unforgettable, and we look forward to another year of growth and impact.
